India on Monday welcomed the United Kingdom government’s decision to impose sanctions on pro-Khalistan extremist entities linked to the banned terror outfit Babbar Khalsa, calling it a significant step toward strengthening global counter-terrorism efforts.
During the weekly media briefing, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said New Delhi appreciates London’s action targeting individuals and organisations involved in anti-India extremist activities. He noted that such elements pose threats not only to India and the UK but to people worldwide.
“We welcome the steps that have been taken by the UK government to sanction anti-India extremist entities, which strengthen the global fight against terrorism and extremism, and help to curb illicit financial flows and transnational crime networks. Such individuals and entities pose a threat not just to India and the UK, but to people across the world. We look forward to continuing to work very closely with the UK side in further strengthening our counter-terrorism and security cooperation,” Jaiswal said.
The remarks came after the UK Treasury announced on December 4 an asset freeze and director disqualification against Gurpreet Singh Rehal, who is suspected of involvement with organisations linked to terrorism in India. An asset freeze was also imposed on Babbar Akali Lehar for promoting and supporting Babbar Khalsa.
The issue of Khalistani extremism has been a recurring concern in India-UK engagements. During UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s visit to India earlier this year, PM Modi raised the matter, stressing that radicalism and violent extremism have no place in democratic societies. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri had also confirmed that India flagged the issue during multiple rounds of bilateral discussions.
The matter gained prominence after several anti-India incidents involving Khalistani agitators, including vandalism at the Indian High Commission in London.
(With agency inputs)
